Peso Sobre Peso

Chava Flores' song "Peso Sobre Peso" is a humorous and satirical commentary on financial struggles and mismanagement within a household. The song is addressed to Bartola, presumably the singer's partner, and it humorously highlights the unrealistic expectations placed on her to manage household expenses with an insufficient amount of money. The singer leaves Bartola with just two pesos to cover the rent, telephone, and electricity bills, and even suggests that she should save some for his personal indulgence, referred to as 'alipús,' a colloquial term for a drink or a small pleasure.

The lyrics are rich with irony and exaggeration, emphasizing the absurdity of the situation. The singer claims to give Bartola 'peso sobre peso,' implying generosity, but the reality is that the amount is laughably inadequate. This contrast serves to criticize the lack of financial awareness and the unrealistic expectations often placed on household managers, typically women. The song also touches on themes of thriftiness and the importance of saving, albeit in a tongue-in-cheek manner, as the singer advises Bartola to save for a luxury item like a mink coat, which is clearly out of reach given their financial constraints.

Chava Flores, known for his witty and humorous songs, often depicted everyday life in Mexico with a critical yet affectionate lens. His musical style blends traditional Mexican genres with a storytelling approach, making his songs both entertaining and thought-provoking. "Peso Sobre Peso" is a perfect example of his ability to use humor to shed light on serious social issues, such as economic hardship and gender roles in financial management.